Berroco Top Knitting Pattern

Banda Knit Top by Berroco

What is Being Made

Banda is an intermediate-level knit top designed by Alison Green. This garment is a fitted pullover available in six size options, ranging from 35 inches to 71½ inches bust measurement, with finished lengths between 19½ and 23 inches. The top is designed with positive ease of 2–4 inches for comfortable wear.

Construction Method

Banda is constructed in one piece from the neck down, a popular top-down knitting technique that allows for easy fitting adjustments. The yoke features shaping created using short rows, which add dimension and ensure proper fit across the shoulders and upper chest.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The garment features a lace pattern stitch worked in the round over a multiple of 12 stitches. The stitch pattern incorporates several fundamental knitting techniques:

• Yarn overs (yo) – create openwork and lace elements throughout the design
• Central double decrease (CDD) – a centered decrease that pairs with yarn overs for balanced lace
• Slip, slip, knit (SSK) – a left-leaning decrease used in the pattern
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease
• Stockinette stitch (St st) – the primary fabric base worked in the round

The lace pattern repeats across 11 rounds, with knit rounds interspersed between patterned rounds to allow the lace motifs to develop clearly.

Yarn and Materials

Banda is designed to be knit with Berroco Seaspun yarn. Quantities range from 6 to 12 balls (50 grams each) depending on the finished size selected, with the sample shown in color #10311 Sound. Berroco Seaspun is a versatile yarn choice for lace and textured knit garments.

The pattern requires two circular needles in different sizes: 16-inch and 32-inch needles in both size 6 (4 mm) and size 8 (5 mm). A set of double-pointed needles in size 6 (4 mm) is needed for working small circumferences, such as at the neckline. Additional notions include five stitch markers—with one in a contrasting color to mark the beginning of round—and waste yarn for holding stitches.

Gauge and Finishing

Proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 28 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger (size 8) needles, measured after blocking. Knitters should take time to swatch and check gauge before beginning to ensure accurate finished measurements.